The U.S. Coast Guard recently updated its policy, reclassifying swastikas and nooses as “hate symbols.” This decision comes after significant backlash regarding a prior policy that downplayed these symbols as simply “potentially divisive.”
New Policy on Hate Symbols
The Coast Guard’s latest memo explicitly prohibits the display of swastikas, nooses, and similar emblems associated with hate groups. The memo states: “Divisive or hate symbols and flags are prohibited.” This announcement was made shortly after a report by The Washington Post highlighted a previous policy change that softened the classification of such symbols.
Previous Policy Adjustments
- In 2023, the Coast Guard classified the display of hate symbols as “potential hate incidents.”
- On December 2023, the new policy was set to take effect, labeling these symbols as “potentially divisive.”
- The recent reversal occurred within hours of public scrutiny and criticism.
Historical Context of the Symbols
Nooses have a profound legacy tied to racial hatred, symbolizing the lynchings of Black individuals in U.S. history. Conversely, swastikas are reminders of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust under Adolf Hitler’s regime.
Response to Backlash
Following the backlash, Rep. Lauren Underwood of Illinois met with Admiral Kevin Lunday, the Coast Guard’s acting commandant. She expressed concerns regarding the original policy and received assurances that a more restrictive stance on hate symbols would be enforced.
Commitment to Core Values
Admiral Lunday reiterated the Coast Guard’s commitment to prohibiting all forms of extremist imagery, emphasizing that any display or promotion of such symbols would be investigated and penalized. He stated, “Symbols such as swastikas and nooses violate our core values.”
Addressing Extremism in the Military
The military has faced challenges in addressing extremism among its ranks. A 2020 Pentagon report indicated that while extremist views were not widespread, they still posed a significant risk. Meanwhile, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin initiated discussions within the military to address the issue during President Joe Biden’s administration.
This updated policy demonstrates the Coast Guard’s renewed commitment to combating hate and extremism within its ranks, reinforcing its position as a critical component of national security and social responsibility.
